6-6-2024 (SINGAPORE) An 18-year-old youth, whose reckless actions during a high-speed motorcycle pursuit along the Seletar Expressway (SLE) claimed the life of a dedicated Land Transport Authority (LTA) officer, appeared in court on Thursday (June 6) to face a litany of charges. The teenager’s defiant response when offered the opportunity to address the court sent shockwaves through the gallery, revealing a chilling disregard for the gravity of his actions.
“I gambled my life as much as he gambled his,” the teenager boldly proclaimed, referring to the fallen officer. “So the death… I may be one of the contributing factors to the death, but I am not to be blamed.”
The courtroom fell silent as the weight of his words sank in, leaving a palpable sense of disbelief and anguish in their wake. A woman in the public gallery, overcome with emotion, began sobbing uncontrollably, her tears a poignant testament to the profound impact of this tragic incident.
The teenager now faces six charges spanning a range of offenses, including traffic violations, drug possession, and weapons-related crimes. Five of these charges stem from the fateful events of June 4, when the pursuit escalated to a deadly confrontation.
Among the allegations leveled against him is the possession of a Samurai sword at Block 502A Woodlands Drive 14 on Tuesday. Additionally, he stands accused of recklessly operating a motorcycle along the SLE without a valid driving license or insurance coverage, and failing to comply with lawful orders from LTA officer Mr. Zdulfika Ahakasah to stop the vehicle.
The charge of dangerous driving paints a harrowing picture, alleging that the teen abruptly cut across two lanes from the road shoulder near the Tampines Expressway exit, violating the chevron markings that separate the expressway’s opposing lanes. This reckless maneuver was an apparent attempt to evade the pursuing officer.
Tragically, it was during this high-stakes chase on Tuesday morning that Mr. Zdulfika became embroiled in a collision with two lorries and a van, sustaining injuries that ultimately proved fatal. He was rushed to the hospital, but despite the medical team’s best efforts, he succumbed to his wounds.
The teenager’s alleged offenses extend beyond the events of June 4, with an additional charge of consuming methamphetamine on August 7, 2023, further compounding the severity of the case.
Due to legal restrictions, the identity of the accused cannot be disclosed, as he was 17 years old at the time of the alleged methamphetamine consumption. Under the Children and Young Persons Act, individuals who were minors during the commission of an offense cannot be named.
The proceedings were conducted via video link from the teenager’s place of remand, and as soon as his image appeared on the screen, the woman in the public gallery erupted into uncontrollable sobs that persisted until his departure.
The prosecution sought a two-week adjournment to complete investigations into potential additional charges related to drug, traffic, and cheating offenses. Moreover, they advocated for the denial of bail, citing the teenager’s history of evasion and the gravity of the charges.
“The police gazette has been enforced by CNB (Central Narcotics Bureau),” the prosecutor stated, revealing that the accused had absconded in October 2023, mere moments before he was scheduled to be admitted to a community rehabilitation center.
“In addition to that, it is also because of the gravity of the offence, your honour. The charge of dangerous driving has caused the death of the pursuing officer.”
Ultimately, the court concurred with the prosecution’s assessment, denying the teenager bail. He is now scheduled to return to court in two weeks, where the full extent of his actions and the ensuing consequences will be further scrutinized.
